1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 730 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1996 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | V |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
